The Play Store (formerly known as the Android Market) is the staple that binds developers to their customers. It serves as a proxy for reporting install statistics, error reports, exchange of funds, and the oft dreaded customer reviews.
Developers provide their applications in .apk form, and receive statistics and reviews (and potentially money) in return. Consumers can purchase apps, books and music via the Play Store app or website.
The service works as you’d expect, at least, most of the time. Despite years of development there are still glaring flaws in the way Google’s growing store functions. This article will attempt to detail commonly reported shortfalls, and offer potential solutions or enhancements to each.
A quick note before we begin, I'm an Android developer, so the views expressed within are from a developers perspective. We'd love to hear from users too, so be sure to add your own comments below.
Page 2: Devs can't help users.
Page 3: Fraudulent apps and poor ratings system.
Page 4: Pirates and making free apps paid ones.
Page 5: Permissions and takedowns.
Page 6: Search and the lack of a cart.
Page 7: Refunds and old devices.
